4.0 means you got an A in every course, and in each course the grade is usually based on a weighted average of tests and papers. You usually don't have the oppo

4.0 means you got an A in every course, and in each course the grade is usually based on a weighted average of tests and papers. You usually don't have the opportunity to redo work or retake tests. I spent 2 years at a good state university and 2 years at a top private university, getting 4.0 and 3.97 respectively. I think getting the 4.0 at the state school was harder as there was less grade inflation. You do not need to be a super genius to get a high GPA. It's a combination of intelligence, interest in the subject matter, hard work, and priorities. Looking back, I thought getting a very high GPA was essential, but now I don't think it matters all that much, nor was it worth the effort.